Whitingham– The sixth annual Hungry Lion Bike Tour, sponsored by the Whitingham-Halifax Lions, was held on September 30. Despite a chilly drizzle, nearly 50 cyclists took to the road to fight hunger in the Deerfield Valley and to support other important Lions projects. For the second year in a row, the HLBT surpassed its $30,000 goal. To date, the tour has raised more than $100,000.

This success would not have been possible without the support of many local businesses, most notably top tour sponsors Telecom Infrastructure Corp., The Richards Group, Cady & Dugan PC Law Offices, Vermont Distillers, AnnColemanGallery.com, Dwayne Coneeny Fund of the Community Foundation of New Jersey, Ratu’s Liquor and Market, Timber Creek X-C Ski Area, and The Deerfield Valley News, the official media sponsor of the event.

The Lions are also grateful to all the businesses and individuals who provided prizes this year.

Sadly, the visionary founder of the Hungry Lion Bike Tour, local realtor (and former pro cyclist) Joe Specht lost his battle with cancer in October. But he was able to greet cyclists at this year’s ride and see how successful his event has become. Community members who would like to make a donation in his memory can visit https://www.Pledgereg.com/155957. While he will be profoundly missed, his vision will continue to guide this event in the coming years.

The Whitingham-Halifax Lions are already working on next year’s Hungry Lion Bike Tour and other important initiatives, and enthusiastically welcome anyone who would like to join the service club and make a difference for the Deerfield Valley. To learn more about membership please contact Alan Stewart at (802) 464-0958.

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